Add Sickle Cell Disease to NHS Prescription Charge Exemption List
We ask the Government to add Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) to the NHS prescription charge exemption list as soon as possible. This will help ensure those affected by this serious condition, which can be life-threatening, can access essential medication and treatments without financial burden.
Signatures
34,448
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 10,000/10,000 · reached
Debate threshold (100,000) · 34,448/100,000
- 14 JAN 2026Petition closedFinal total: 34,448 signatures
- 12 AUG 2025Government respondedDepartment of Health and Social CareGovernment reply
The Government has no current plans to add sickle cell disease to the medical exemption list. Extensive arrangements are in place in England to ensure that prescriptions are affordable for everyone.
Read full response - 17 JUL 202510,000 signatures reachedEligible for a government response
- 14 JUL 2025Petition opened for signatures
Background
Sickle Cell Disease is a lifelong condition which can lead to other life-threatening health problems. It particularly commonly affects people with an African or Caribbean family background. Yet unlike many other serious illnesses, it’s not covered by NHS prescription charge exemptions despite being the most common genetic blood disorder in the UK. Many patients may not be able to work but still face monthly costs for vital medication.
We think this isn’t just unfair—it’s unjust. We urge the government to add SCD to the exemption list and take a stand against inequality in healthcare.